Revised Chevy Volt Can Use California Carpool Lanes

General Motors Co. said it is shipping a new “low emission” version of the 2012 Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid sedan to California, where it will allow owners to drive in the state’s carpool lanes even when it isn’t carrying passengers other than the driver.

This is a big development for drivers who for decades have relied on the carpool lanes for bypassing California’s infamous traffic congestion. It also could mark the beginning of the end of embarrassment for GM over the Volt’s relatively “dirty” emissions, which in the past kept it from qualifying for solo driving in carpool lanes.

Meanwhile other hybrids like the Toyota Prius could use the lanes even though their fuel economy ratings aren’t as high as the Volt’s.

Chevy said Volts with the Low Emissions Package, which is standard for California, should begin arriving at dealerships in the Golden State before the end of the month.

“The Volts with the Low Emissions Package are certain to be a strong draw for California commuters looking to travel the state’s notoriously congested freeways in the carpool lane,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing.

Commuters who use carpool lanes in Southern California save an estimated average of 36 minutes a day, or roughly a third of their total driving time.

Comments (4 of 4)

Wow.... Drove one over the weekend here in Denver and cannot believe how great it drove, plus how great the interior is. Plus how it didn't need any gas over 3.5 days and 97 miles!

9:42 am February 28, 2012

Anonymous wrote :

The "Dolt" is an expensive dud. A GM's Edsel. The question is how much it's worth as collector car.

7:37 pm February 27, 2012

Volt136 wrote :

The Volt should have been allowed in the CA Carpool (HOV) lanes from the begining, because the cars are electric during regular commuting - the lane restrictions are about reducing vehicles and emissions during commuting not MPG.